Topical naproxen formulations and their uses

Abstract

A topical naproxen formulation comprising a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol, a terpene, or a combination thereof, and a solvent mixture comprising ethanol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, and optionally dimethyl sulfoxide ("DMSO"), wherein the formulation contains about 5.0% or less water by weight, and is preferably anhydrous.

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority from, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 184,631, filed May 5, 2021, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety, including all tables, figures, and claims.

[0002] The following discussion of the background of the present disclosure is provided merely to aid the reader in understanding the present disclosure and is not admitted to describe or constitute prior art to the present disclosure.

[0003] Cyclooxygenase (COX, also known as prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase) refers to a family of enzymes involved in the formation of prostanoids, including prostaglandins such as thromboxanes and prostacyclins, from arachidonic acid. COX represents a common pharmaceutical target, since prostanoids are mediators of pain and inflammation. Agents that inhibit prostaglandin G / H synthase (cyclooxygenase or COX), the enzyme that catalyzes the production of prostanoids such as prostaglandins, prostacyclins and thromboxanes from arachidonic acid, are called COX inhibitors. Common nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen, exert their effects by inhibiting the enzymes COX-1 and COX-2, while NSAIDs such as acelecoxib and etoricoxib are specific for the COX-2 isoenzyme. Acetaminophen is not considered an NSAID because it has only modest anti-inflammatory activity, but it treats pain by blocking COX-2 and simultaneously inhibiting endocannabinoid reuptake.

[0004] The use of COX inhibitors in topical formulations can be beneficial in reducing the possibility that patients will suffer from adverse effects associated with systemic therapy. Drugs that are applied directly to the skin can be intended for either local or systemic effects. Drugs that are applied topically (e.g., topical patches, creams, gels, ointments, solutions, etc.) can be intended to reach local tissues to achieve desired therapeutic effects, or can act transdermally to provide systemic concentrations comparable to those of drugs that are administered orally.

[0005] There are several NSAID products available in the United States that are approved for the treatment of painful conditions. Diclofenac sodium 1% gel (Voltaren Gel) is approved for the relief of pain due to osteoarthritis in joints suitable for topical treatment, such as the knee and hand joints. This product contains various additional ingredients in the vehicle, including isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol, and water to aid in drug penetration through the skin. Diclofenac sodium topical solution 1.5% w / w (PENNSAID) is indicated for the treatment of signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee(s). Additional absorption enhancing ingredients in this product include DMSO, propylene glycol, water, and alcohol. Diclofenac epolamine topical patch 1.3% (Flector Patch) is indicated for the topical treatment of acute pain due to minor strains, sprains, and bruises. The patch consists of an adhesive containing 1.3% diclofenac epolamine applied to a nonwoven polyester felt backing and covered with a polypropylene film release liner that is removed prior to application.

[0006] Evidence indicates that topical formulations can achieve therapeutic concentrations of the drug in local tissues while maintaining low serum levels of the drug and, in some cases, avoiding systemic toxicity. Topical diclofenac preparations have reported maximum serum concentrations that are 0.4-2.2% of the maximum serum concentrations achieved with oral diclofenac, resulting in significantly reduced systemic exposure. The combination of high drug concentrations at the site of action and low systemic concentrations may provide efficacy equal to or greater than that of systemic NSAIDs with a reduced risk of adverse effects. Summary of the Invention

[0007] In a first aspect, the present disclosure provides topical naproxen formulations. These topical formulations include: about 0.5% to about 25% by weight of naproxen; about 1.0% to about 15.0% by weight of a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol, a terpene, or a combination thereof; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of poloxamer; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of a pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulosic excipient; 0 to about 5.0% by weight alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate ("TPGS" or "vitamin E TPGS"); a solvent mixture comprising ethanol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, and optionally dimethyl sulfoxide ("DMSO"); comprising or consisting of The formulation contains about 5.0% by weight or less water, preferably about 1.0% or less water, and most preferably 0% water.

[0008] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; 0 to about 50% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; 0 to about 5% by weight of cannabidiol; 0 to about 0.1% by weight of vitamin D3; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight comprising or consisting of The formulations are anhydrous, as that term is defined below.

[0009] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 4% by weight of TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight comprising or consisting of The formulations are anhydrous, as that term is defined below.

[0010] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 4% by weight of TPGS; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight comprising or consisting of The formulations are anhydrous, as that term is defined below.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight comprising or consisting of The formulations are anhydrous, as that term is defined below.

[0012] Naproxen may be present in the topical formulations of the present invention as the free acid or as various salts (eg, naproxen sodium) or esters (eg, naproxen methyl ester).

[0013] In preferred embodiments, the topical formulations of the present invention are clear, transparent, and slightly viscous. In these formulations, the naproxen does not form co-crystals with any of the components of the formulation, but rather is solubilized in the formulation.

[0014] In various embodiments, the topical formulation further comprises one or more COX inhibitors selected from the group consisting of cannabinoids (e.g., tetrahydrocannabinol (D9-THC), tetrahydro-cannabinolic acid-A (THCA-A), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), cannabigerol (CBG), and cannabigerolic acid (CBGA)), acetaminophen, benzydamine, bufexamac, diclofenac, etofenamate, flufenamic acid, ibuprofen, indomethacin, ketoprofen, and salicylates (e.g., salicylic acid, salicin, diflunisal, magnesium salicylate, choline salicylate).

[0015] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation provides a percutaneous absorption of at least 7% of the amount of naproxen present in the formulation. Percutaneous absorption (or skin permeation) can be viewed as a series of sequential steps: adsorption of the penetrating molecule to the superficial layer of the stratum corneum, followed by diffusion through the stratum corneum and the viable epidermis. In the papillary layer of the dermis, the molecule is taken up into the microcirculation, followed by systemic distribution. Methods for measuring the percutaneous absorption of topically applied drugs are known in the art. See, for example, Kezic, Hum. Exp. Toxicol. 2008 27(4):289-95. doi:10.1177 / 0960327107085825. Preferably, the formulation according to this claim provides a percutaneous absorption of at least 10% of naproxen.

[0016] In the most preferred embodiment, the topical formulation does not contain water; that is, the formulation is anhydrous. "% by weight of water", "water-free" or "anhydrous" means that the formulation contains the indicated % by weight of water or does not include the use of water added as water itself or as one of the components of the liquid solvent. As an example, 95% ethanol, which is an azeotrope containing 5% water, is not used in anhydrous formulations because water is present in ethanol. However, water that is a component of hydrated ionic compounds (compounds that are "hydrates" that contain water of hydration) or that arises from hygroscopic absorption may be present in such anhydrous formulations.

[0017] The term "wt %" as used herein refers to (mass of component / total mass of formulation) x 100. As an example, 2 wt % naproxen refers to 2 g of naproxen per 100 g of formulation.

[0018] The term "long chain monounsaturated fatty acid" refers to a fatty acid having at least 14 carbons and a single double bond. The term "long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol" refers to the equivalent alcohol (i.e., the -OH group is attached to the terminal carbon rather than to an alkoxy). For example, the formula for oleic acid is CH3(CH2)7CH=CH(CH2)7COOH, and the formula for the equivalent oleyl alcohol is CH3(CH2)7-CH=CH-(CH2)8OH. Examples of monounsaturated fatty acids within this group include, but are not limited to, the following: [Table 1]

[0019] In various embodiments, the long chain monounsaturated fatty acid and / or long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol present in the formulation is a C16:1 to C22:1 fatty acid or alcohol. In a preferred embodiment, the long chain monounsaturated fatty acid present in the formulation comprises or consists of about 1 to about 15% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, more preferably about 1 to about 10% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, and most preferably about 1 to about 5% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof. In certain embodiments, the long chain monounsaturated fatty acids present in the formulation comprise or consist of about 1% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 2% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 3% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 4% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 5% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 6% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 7% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 8% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, about 9% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof, or about 10% by weight oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof.

[0020] Poloxamers are nonionic triblock copolymers consisting of a central hydrophobic chain of polyoxypropylene flanked by two hydrophilic chains of polyoxyethylene; these copolymers are usually designated by the letter P (indicating poloxamer) followed by three numbers; the first two numbers are multiplied by 100 to give the approximate molecular weight of the polyoxypropylene core, and the last number is multiplied by 10 to give the percent polyoxyethylene content. Examples of poloxamers that can be used in the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, poloxamer-101, -105, -105 benzoate, -108, -122, -123, -124, -181, -182, -182 dibenzoate, -183, -184, -185, -188, -212, -215, -217, -231, -234, -235, -237, -238, -282, -284, -288, -331, -333, -334, -335, -338, -401, -402, -403, and -407. In a preferred embodiment, the poloxamer present in the formulation comprises or consists of about 0.1 to about 5% by weight poloxamer-188 or contains no poloxamer.

[0021] Cellulose and its derivatives (e.g., ether and ester derivatives) are among the excipients frequently used in pharmaceutical formulations and industrial products for a variety of purposes. Among their uses are as suspending agents in oral liquid preparations and as thickening agents in topical formulations. Examples of pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulose-based excipients that may be used in the present disclosure include, but are not limited to, hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose, and ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. In preferred embodiments, the pharma-ceutically acceptable cellulose-based excipient present in the formulation comprises or consists of about 1.0 to about 5% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose. In certain embodiments, the cellulose-based excipient in the formulation comprises or consists of about 1% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose, about 2% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose, about 3% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose, about 4% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose, or about 5% by weight hydroxypropyl cellulose. In certain other embodiments, the formulation is free of cellulose-based excipients.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the topical formulations of the present invention include one or more anesthetic agents, such as procaine, chloroprocaine, tetracaine, cocaine, and benzocaine, dibucaine, lidocaine, mepivacaine, prilocaine, bupivacaine, levobupivacaine, ropivacaine, articaine, and etidocaine. Suitable amounts of such agents are up to about 5% of the formulation.

[0023] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation of the present invention is transparent. As used herein, the term "transparent" refers to a formulation that has the property of transmitting visible light without appreciable scattering, such that objects located beyond the formulation are visible to the human eye. The human visible spectrum ranges from about 380 nm to about 750 nm. Water at 20°C exhibits significant absorption at 860 nm, but is considered transparent for the purposes of the present invention.

[0024] Most transparent media have a refractive index of 1-2 measured at the sodium yellow duplex D line at a wavelength of 589 nm. For example, the refractive index of water is 1.33. In contrast, the refractive index of turbid media cannot be measured in transmission mode due to multiple light scattering effects and is typically measured in reflection mode instead. Thus, in certain embodiments, the topical formulations of the present invention have a refractive index of 1-2 when measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 589 nm at 20°C.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the topical formulation of the present invention is slightly viscous.The term "slightly viscous" as used herein refers to a formulation having a viscosity of more than about 100 centipoise and less than about 5000 centipoise at 20°C.For comparison, the viscosity of water at 20°C is 1 centipoise.In certain embodiments, the slightly viscous formulation is more than about 500 centipoise and less than about 2000 centipoise at 20°C.

[0026] The term "about" as used throughout this specification in reference to values ​​refers to + / - 10% or less. In certain embodiments, + / - 10% of a given value can be replaced with + / - 5% of the given value or + / - 1% of the given value.

[0027] A list of exemplary formulations of the present disclosure can be found in the table below. In each case, the values ​​listed in the table may include within the range + / - 10%, + / - 5% or + / - 1% of each value. In each case, the formulation is preferably anhydrous and forms a clear, slightly viscous gel in which the naproxen is not in co-crystalline form, but rather is fully solubilized in the formulation. Most preferably, each formulation exhibits a refractive index of 1-2 when measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 20°C and 589 nm. [Table 2] TIFF2024519493000003.tif185159TIFF2024519493000004.tif191159TIFF2024519493000005.tif208159TIFF20245194930 00006.tif206159TIFF2024519493000007.tif203159TIFF2024519493000008.tif207159TIFF2024519493000009.tif208159

[0028] In a related aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for locally treating a pain episode at a human body site, comprising locally applying a topical naproxen formulation according to the present disclosure to the site. In various embodiments, the pain episode is an acute pain episode or a chronic pain episode. Examples of pain episodes that can be treated include, but are not limited to, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, mild to moderate inflammation and tissue injury, low back pain, inflammatory arthropathy (e.g., ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis, reactive arthritis), tennis elbow, headache, post-operative pain, muscle stiffness and pain due to Parkinson's disease, and traumatic injury. In a preferred embodiment, the method is for locally treating osteoarthritis pain of the knee(s), comprising locally applying a topical naproxen formulation according to the present disclosure to the knee(s).

[0029] In certain embodiments, a dose of naproxen formulation according to the applicable disclosure provides an amount of naproxen of about 80 mg, about 40 mg, about 30 mg, about 20 mg, or about 10 mg. In certain embodiments, for example, application of 4 mL of a 2% by weight naproxen formulation would provide a topical dose of naproxen of 80 mg; 2 mL would provide 40 mg, 1 mL would provide 20 mg, etc.

[0030] In some embodiments, the formulations of the present disclosure are in the form of gels, lotions, creams, sprays, aerosols, ointments, emulsions, suspensions, liposomal systems, lacquers, patches, bandages, lozenges, wafers, sublingual tablets, suppositories, vaginal dosage forms or occlusive dressings. In certain embodiments, the formulations are gels. In some embodiments, the formulations of the present disclosure are applied directly to the skin, for example as gels, ointments or creams, or indirectly by patches, bandages or other occlusive dressings. The formulations of the present disclosure can be applied once a day or multiple times a day, depending on the condition of the patient. In some embodiments, the formulations are adapted for administration once, twice, three or four times a day for as long as desired, suitably on the order of days to weeks to months, or longer if desired. The compositions can be administered to any skin surface, including the hands, arms, trunk, back, legs, feet, etc.

[0031] It is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The disclosure is capable of embodiments in addition to those described and can be practiced and carried out in various ways. It is also to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed in the Abstract herewith are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0032] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception underlying the present disclosure may be readily utilized as a basis for the design of other structures, methods and systems for carrying out some of the purposes of the present disclosure. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] The biggest obstacles in topical and transdermal delivery of COX inhibitors are the occlusive nature of the stratum corneum (SC), the outermost layer of the skin, skin binding, skin metabolism, skin toxicity, and long lag times. To enhance transdermal absorption, various methodologies have been developed, including drug derivatives, supersaturation systems, physical approaches, and the use of chemical penetration enhancers (adsorption enhancers) to promote diffusion of drugs through the SC. In that regard, numerous chemicals have been used for skin permeation enhancement, including fatty acids, fatty acid esters, fatty alcohols or fatty alcohol ethers, fatty ethers, lower alcohols, glycerol esters, polyhydric alcohols, diols, amides (e.g., N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), amines, terpenes, polar solvents, pyrrolidone and its derivatives, sulfoxides, azones or laurocapram, surfactants, lecithins, polyols, glycols, quaternary ammonium compounds, silicones, alkanoates, certain biologics, enzymes, complexing agents, macrocyclic compounds, solvents, etc.

[0034] As used herein, "penetration enhancement" refers to increasing the permeability of the skin to an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) in order to increase the rate at which the API penetrates the skin. Similarly, "permeation enhancer" (PE) refers to an agent or mixture of agents that achieves such penetration enhancement. PE mixtures suitable for the present disclosure enhance the penetration of API through the skin by one or more of the following mechanisms: (1) by increasing the diffusivity of the drug in the skin; (2) by causing SC lipid mobilization (a reversible effect) that leads to a decrease in barrier function; (3) by increasing and optimizing the thermodynamic activity of the drug in the vehicle; (4) by affecting the partition coefficient of the drug; and (5) by increasing the release from the formulation into the upper layers of the skin.

[0035] In certain embodiments, PE mixtures suitable for the present disclosure have one or more of the following characteristics: non-toxic, non-irritating, non-allergenic, and / or non-sensitizing to the skin; pharmacologically inactive, at least at the concentrations required to exert an adequate penetrating effect; have immediate, predictable, and / or reversible effects; are easily incorporated into pharmaceutical products; and are cosmetically acceptable.

[0036] Fatty acid permeation enhancer

[0037] The PE mixture of the present disclosure preferably includes one or more fatty acids, such as long chain fatty acids. For example, the fatty acid can be oleic acid (cis-9-octadecenoic acid) or a functional derivative thereof. In certain embodiments, the PE is a fatty acid ester, a fatty alcohol or fatty alcohol ether, a fatty ether, a lower alcohol, a glycerol ester, a polyhydric alcohol, a diol, an amide (e.g., N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide), an amine, a terpene, a polar solvent, or a mixture thereof. In certain embodiments, the fatty acid is an alkanoic acid, capric acid, a diacid, ethyl octadecanoic acid, hexanoic acid, lactic acid, lauric acid, linoelaidic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, neodecanoic acid, oleic acid (cis-9-octadecenoic acid), palmitic acid, pelargonic acid, propionic acid, or vaccenic acid. In certain embodiments, the PE is at least one of a C8 to C22 fatty acid, such as isopropyl myristate.

[0038] Without wishing to be bound by any particular theory, it is believed that the fatty acid PE of the present disclosure selectively perturbs the intercellular lipid bilayer in the SC, thereby enhancing SC penetration by APIs. In certain embodiments, based on the general trend that unsaturated fatty acids are more effective at enhancing percutaneous absorption than their saturated counterparts (e.g., more than 5-fold, more than 10-fold, more than 15-fold, more than 20-fold, or more), especially for lipophilic drugs / APIs, the difference in penetration enhancement effect can be adjusted by adjusting the number of double bonds and cis / trans configuration of the fatty acid isomers.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the PE is oleic acid, linoleic acid, a-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, palmitic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, isostearic acid, isopropyl myristate, or myristic acid, and optionally further comprises one or more of propylene glycol, ethanol, 2-ethyl-1,3-hexanediol, and dexpanthenol. In certain embodiments, the PE is palmitic acid, and the topical formulation is formulated to enhance the penetration of the API into the SC (especially the alkyl-rich region). In certain embodiments, the PE is myristic acid, and the topical formulation is formulated to enhance the penetration of the API into the epidermis. In certain embodiments, the PE is octyl salicylate, and the topical formulation is formulated to enhance the penetration of water-soluble or oil-soluble API into the epidermis and dermis.

[0040] Additional fatty acid based PEs can be found in MX 9705070, GR 1004995, US 2005-020552A1, WO 05 / 060540, CA 2,420,895, MX 9800545, WO 04 / 054552, NZ 537359, WO 98 / 18417, WO 96 / 30020, DE 4301783, US 4,885,174, US 4,983,396, NZ 222346, CA 1,280,974, and US 4,626,539.

[0041] Terpene Penetration Enhancers

[0042] Terpenes can be used in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations as permeation enhancers due to their high permeation enhancing effect and low skin irritation. Terpenes are volatile compounds that are mainly extracted from medicinal plants and have molecular components composed only of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen atoms. The basic chemical structure of terpenes consists of several repeating isoprene (C5H8) units that are used to classify terpenes. Some terpenes (e.g., 1,8-cineole, menthol, and menthone) are included in the list of Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) agents issued by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Examples of terpenes suitable for the present disclosure can be selected from the group consisting of menthol, D-limonene, geraniol, nerolidol, and mixtures thereof.

[0043] Sulfoxide permeation enhancers

[0044] In certain embodiments, the PE mixture suitable for the present disclosure includes dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) to enhance the penetration of both hydrophilic and lipophilic APIs. Additional DMSO-like PEs that can replace DMSO include similar chemically related compounds such as dimethylacetamide (DMAC), dimethylformamide (DMF), cyclic sulfoxides, decylmethylsulfoxide, dimethylsulfoxide, and 2-hydroxyundecylmethylsulfoxide.

[0045] Glycol permeation enhancer

[0046] In a particular embodiment, the PE mixture suitable for the present disclosure comprises one or more glycol-based compounds, such as monoalkyl ethers of diethylene glycol, preferably diethylene glycol monoethyl ether or diethylene glycol monomethyl ether, or other dipropylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,2-butylene glycol, etc. Currently, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) inactive ingredient database lists diethylene glycol monoethyl ether (Transcatol) for topical (up to 49.9%) and transdermal (up to 5%) routes of administration. An important property of Transcatol is its ability to dissolve a wide range of hydrophilic and lipophilic active substances. Its ability to outperform PG and EtOH in solubilizing power makes it a very useful pharmaceutical excipient. With a negative log P of about 0.5, Transcatol is considered a polar protic solubilizer that also exhibits affinity and good miscibility with hydrophobic groups. The tendency of solvents with a negative log P to penetrate into the stratum corneum is in contrast to lipophilic actives (log P values ​​2-3), which penetrate into the stratum corneum more readily than actives with negative log P values. Transcatol is compatible with most pharmaceutical excipients; it is soluble in common solvents, e.g., glycerin, ethanol, propylene glycol, and water; it is miscible with polar lipids, such as medium-chain triglycerides and polyethylene glycol-based surfactants (polyoxylglycerides), but is insoluble in non-polar mineral oils or dimethicone. Due to its high solubility and miscibility with water, Transcatol can be hydrated depending on the relative humidity conditions.

[0047] emulsifier

[0048] The preparation of a formulation for topical application to the skin or mucosal surfaces may often require mixing an oil phase with an emulsifier. The emulsifier is a pharma- ceutically acceptable surfactant that may be a small molecule, oligomer, or polymer. It may be non-ionic, cationic, or anionic. It may be of natural or synthetic origin.

[0049] Numerous emulsifiers may be used in the present disclosure. In certain embodiments, the emulsifier may include: sodium lauryl sulfate or non-ionic emulsifiers (e.g., glyceryl stearate and / or PEG 100 stearate). Other representative emulsifiers include, but are not limited to, gelatin, casein, lecithin (phosphatide), gum acacia, cholesterol, tragacanth, polyoxyethylene alkyl ethers, macrogol ethers such as cetomacrogol 1000, polyoxyethylene castor oil derivatives, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters, such as commercially available Tween, polyoxyethylene stearate, colloidal silicon dioxide, sodium dodecyl sulfate, calcium carboxymethylcellulose, sodium carboxymethylcellulose, methylcellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, and magnesium aluminum silicate. Most of these surface modifiers are known pharmaceutical excipients and are described in detail in the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Extractants, published jointly by the American Pharmaceutical Association and the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, Pharmaceutical Press, 1986.

[0050] Other examples of surfactants include tyloxapol, poloxamers and poloxamines. Poloxamers are water-soluble triblock copolymers composed of hydrophilic polyethylene oxide (PEO) blocks and hydrophobic polypropylene oxide (PPO) blocks linked together. The amphiphilicity of these block copolymers can be altered by controlling the length of the PEO and / or PPO block components (Ahmed et al., 2001). Some members of this poloxamer family of chemicals (e.g., poloxamers 188 and 407) are known to be biocompatible and non-toxic to mammalian cells and tissues, making them useful for biological applications. These surfactants are known to incorporate into or onto mammalian cell membranes, reducing protein adsorption and cell adhesion.

[0051] Still other emulsifiers include lecithin, dialkyl esters of sodium sulfosuccinate, such as Aersol OT, a dioctyl ester of sodium sulfosuccinate available from American Cyanamid, Dupont P, a sodium lauryl sulfate available from DuPont, Triton X-200, an alkylaryl polyether sulfonate available from Rohm and Haas, Tween® 20 and Tween® 80, polyoxyethylene sorbitan fatty acid esters available from Croda; Crodesta Fl 10, a mixture of sucrose stearate and sucrose distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 20, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 30, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 40, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 50, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 60, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 70, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 80, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 90, a mixture of sucrose stearate and distearate available from Croda, Crodesta Fl 1 ... SL-40, and SA90HCO, which is Ci8H37-CH2(CON(CH3)CH2(CHOH)4CH2OH)2, decanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-decyl-PD-glucosylanoside; n-decyl-PD-maltopyranoside; n-dodecyl-PD-glucopyranoside; n-dodecyl-PD-maltoside; heptanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-heptyl-PD-glucopyranoside; n-heptyl-PD-thioglucoside; n-hexyl-PD-glucopyranoside; nonanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-nonyl-PD-glucopyranoside; octanoyl-N-methylglucamide; n-octyl-PD-glucopyranoside; octyl-PD-thioglucopyranoside, etc.

[0052] Another suitable surfactant is Vitamin E TPGS (alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate, also abbreviated as TPGS).

[0053] Many polymeric emulsifiers, such as poloxamers and cellulosic excipients, also act as gelling agents. Gels are semi-solid, three-dimensional polymer matrices that contain a small amount of solid dispersed in a relatively large amount of liquid, but with more solid-like properties. Gels exhibit mechanical properties characteristic of the solid state, and both the dispersed components and the dispersion medium extend continuously throughout the system. Gels are often transparent or translucent semi-solid formulations, and are preferred by patients for their discreetness. Topical gel formulations provide a suitable delivery system for drugs, as they are less sticky and offer better application and stability compared to creams and ointments.

[0054] Other Ingredients

[0055] In certain embodiments, the composition may further comprise one or more additives or combinations thereof, including, but not limited to, humectants; texture improvers; humidity regulators; pH adjusters; osmolality modifiers; UV-A and UV-B screening agents; and antioxidants. For example, the antioxidants may be alpha-tocopherol, butylated hydroxyanisole, or butylated hydroxytoluene, superoxide dismutase, ubiquinol, or certain metal chelators. Those skilled in the art will be able to select the optional compound(s) added to these compositions so that the beneficial properties essentially related to the present disclosure are not adversely affected or are not substantially affected by the intended addition.

[0056] Additionally, the composition may further comprise one or more additional active agents, such as an antihistamine; a corticosteroid, a local anesthetic, a local analgesic, and an antibiotic. In various embodiments, the antihistamine may be diphenhydramine hydrochloride or chlorpheniramine maleate; the corticosteroid may be hydrocortisone, hydrocortisone-21-monoesters (e.g., hydrocortisone-21-acetate, hydrocortisone-21-butyrate, hydrocortisone-21-propionate, hydrocortisone-21-valerate, etc.), and hydrocortisone-17,21-diesters (e.g., hydrocortisone-17,21-diacetate, hydrocortisone-17-acetate-2-ol ... the topical anesthetic may be benzocaine, lidocaine, prilocaine, and dibucaine; the topical analgesic may be l-menthol, d,l-camphor, or capsaicin.

[0057] Preferred Embodiments

[0058] The following are preferred embodiments of the present invention. Embodiment 1. about 0.5% to about 25% by weight of naproxen; about 1.0% to about 15.0% by weight of a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol, a terpene, or a combination thereof; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of poloxamer; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of a pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulosic excipient; 0 to about 5.0% by weight alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate ("TPGS" or "vitamin E TPGS"); a solvent mixture comprising ethanol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, and optionally dimethyl sulfoxide ("DMSO"); 1. A topical naproxen formulation comprising: The topical naproxen formulation, wherein the formulation contains less than about 5.0% water by weight. Embodiment 2. The formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; 0 to about 50% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; 0 to about 5% by weight of cannabidiol; 0 to about 0.1% by weight of vitamin D3; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 1, comprising: Embodiment 3. The formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 4% by weight of TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 1, comprising: Embodiment 4. The formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 1, comprising: Embodiment 5. The formulation comprises: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 1, comprising: Embodiment 6. A topical naproxen formulation according to any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the formulation contains no more than about 1.0% water by weight. Embodiment 7. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the formulation is anhydrous. Embodiment 8. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the formulation is transparent. Embodiment 9. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 8, wherein the formulation has a refractive index of 1 to 2, measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 589 nm at 20° C. Embodiment 10. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 9, wherein the formulation comprises at least 5% by weight ethanol, from about 10.0 to about 12% by weight propylene glycol, from about 15% to about 45% by weight dimethylsulfoxide, and from about 10.0 to about 50% by weight 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol. Embodiment 11. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 10, wherein the formulation comprises from about 5% to about 15% by weight of a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated alcohol, or a mixture thereof. Embodiment 12. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, long chain monounsaturated alcohol, or mixtures thereof present in the formulation comprises or consists of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof. Embodiment 13. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the formulation comprises a poloxamer selected from the group consisting of poloxamer-101, -105, -105 benzoate, -108, -122, -123, -124, -181, -182, -182 dibenzoate, -183, -184, -185, -188, -212, -215, -217, -231, -234, -235, -237, -238, -282, -284, -288, -331, -333, -334, -335, -338, -401, -402, -403, and -407. Embodiment 14. The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 13, wherein the formulation comprises about 2% to about 5% poloxamer-188 by weight. Embodiment 15. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 14, wherein the formulation comprises a pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulosic excipient selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methylcellulose and ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose. Embodiment 16. The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 15, wherein the formulation comprises about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropylcellulose. Embodiment 17. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1 to 16, wherein the formulation comprises about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS. Embodiment 18. A topical naproxen formulation according to embodiment 1, wherein the formulation is one of the following anhydrous formulations, where the indicated value is + / - 10% of the indicated value, + / - 1% of the indicated value, or the indicated value, respectively: [Table 3] TIFF2024519493000011.tif186159TIFF2024519493000012.tif184159TIFF2024519493000013.tif214159TIFF2024519493000014.tif183159TIFF2024519493000015.tif180159TIFF2024519493000016.tif182159TIFF2024519493000017.tif90159Embodiment 19. The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 18, wherein the formulation is anhydrous. Embodiment 20. The topical naproxen formulation of embodiment 18 or 19, wherein the formulation is transparent. Embodiment 21. A topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 18 to 20, wherein the formulation has a refractive index of 1 to 2, measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 589 nm at 20°C. Embodiment 22. A method of locally treating a pain episode at a site on the human body comprising locally applying to said site a topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1-21. Embodiment 23 The method of embodiment 22, wherein the pain episode is an acute pain episode. Embodiment 24 The method of embodiment 22, wherein the pain episode is a chronic pain episode. Embodiment 25. A method of locally treating osteoarthritis pain in a knee(s), comprising locally applying to the knee(s) a topical naproxen formulation according to one of embodiments 1-21. Embodiment 26 The method of one of embodiments 22-25, wherein the topical dose of naproxen is about 80 mg, about 40 mg, about 30 mg, about 20 mg, or about 10 mg. EXAMPLES

[0059] Example 1. Formulation

[0060] The following is a method for preparing the naproxen formulation of the present invention.

[0061] Weigh out naproxen, lidocaine, oleic acid, DMSO, DEGEE (Transcatel), propylene glycol, hydroxypropyl cellulose, Vitamin E TPGS, and absolute ethanol. At 20° C., combine DMSO and / or DEGEE with mixing to form Solution A.

[0062] Propylene glycol and absolute ethanol are combined and added with mixing to solution A to form solution B. If required for the formulation, Vitamin E TPGS is added and dissolved in solution B before being added to solution A.

[0063] Naproxen, or naproxen and lidocaine if required for the formulation, are dissolved in solution B to form solution C.

[0064] Oleic acid and / or oleyl alcohol are added to solution C to form solution D.

[0065] Hydroxypropylcellulose is slowly added to solution D with vigorous mixing until the polymer is fully solvated, the solution becomes homogeneous, and the appropriate viscosity of 500-3000 CPS is obtained to complete the formulation. The formulation is slightly yellow but transparent, without opacity, without undissolved particles or cocrystals, has a refractive index of 1-2, and a viscosity of 500-3000 CPS (centipoise).

[0066] One skilled in the art can readily appreciate that the present disclosure is well adapted to carry out the objects set forth above and attain the objects and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The examples provided herein are representative and illustrative of preferred embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.

[0067] It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that varying substitutions and modifications can be made in the disclosure disclosed herein without departing from the scope and spirit of the disclosure.

[0068] All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

[0069] The present disclosure illustratively described herein can be suitably implemented without any element(s) or limitation(s) not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, in each example herein, any of the terms "comprise", "consist essentially of" and "consist of" can be replaced with either of the other two terms. The terms and expressions used have been used as terms of description and not of limitation, and there is no intention in the use of such terms and expressions to exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, but rather, it is recognized that various modifications are possible within the scope of the disclosure claimed. Thus, although the present disclosure has been specifically disclosed by preferred embodiments and optional features, it should be understood that modifications and variations of the concepts disclosed herein can be utilized by those skilled in the art, and that such modifications and variations are considered to be within the scope of the present disclosure, as defined by the appended claims.

[0070] Other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. about 0.5% to about 25% by weight of naproxen; from about 1.0% to about 15.0% by weight of a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated fatty alcohol, a terpene, or a combination thereof; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of a poloxamer; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of a pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulosic excipient; 0 to about 5.0% by weight of alpha-tocopheryl polyethylene glycol succinate ("TPGS" or "vitamin E TPGS"); a solvent mixture comprising ethanol, propylene glycol, 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol, and optionally dimethylsulfoxide ("DMSO"); 1. A topical naproxen formulation comprising: The topical naproxen formulation, wherein the formulation contains less than about 5.0% water by weight.

2. 33. The formulation comprising: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; 0 to about 50% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; 0 to about 5% by weight of cannabidiol; 0 to about 0.1% by weight of vitamin D3; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, comprising:

3. 33. The formulation comprising: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 4% by weight TPGS; 0 to about 50% by weight of poloxamer 188; 0 to about 5% by weight lidocaine; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, comprising:

4. 33. The formulation comprising: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, comprising:

5. 33. The formulation comprising: about 5% to about 20% by weight of naproxen; about 5% to about 15% by weight of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or a combination thereof; about 15% to about 45% by weight DMSO; about 5% to about 15% by weight propylene glycol; about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropyl cellulose; about 10% to about 30% by weight of 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol; With an appropriate amount of ethanol up to 100% by weight 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, comprising:

6. 10. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation contains about 1.0% or less water by weight.

7. 7. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 6, wherein the formulation is anhydrous.

8. 8. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 7, wherein the formulation is transparent.

9. 9. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 8, wherein the formulation has a refractive index of 1-2 measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 589 nm at 20°C.

10. 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation comprises at least 5% by weight ethanol, from about 10.0 to about 12% by weight propylene glycol, from about 15% to about 45% by weight dimethylsulfoxide, and from about 10.0 to about 50% by weight 2-(2-ethoxyethoxy)ethanol.

11. 11. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 10, wherein the formulation comprises from about 5% to about 15% by weight of a long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, a long chain monounsaturated alcohol, or a mixture thereof.

12. 12. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 11, wherein the long chain monounsaturated fatty acid, long chain monounsaturated alcohol, or mixtures thereof present in the formulation comprises or consists of oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, or mixtures thereof.

13. 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation comprises a poloxamer selected from the group consisting of poloxamer-101, -105, -105 benzoate, -108, -122, -123, -124, -181, -182, -182 dibenzoate, -183, -184, -185, -188, -212, -215, -217, -231, -234, -235, -237, -238, -282, -284, -288, -331, -333, -334, -335, -338, -401, -402, -403, and -407.

14. 14. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 13, wherein the formulation comprises about 2% to about 5% by weight of poloxamer-188.

15. 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation comprises a pharma- ceutically acceptable cellulosic excipient selected from the group consisting of hydroxypropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose, methyl cellulose, ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl methyl cellulose, and ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose.

16. 16. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 15, wherein the formulation comprises from about 1% to about 5% by weight of hydroxypropylcellulose.

17. 10. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation comprises from about 1% to about 5% by weight of TPGS.

18. 2. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 1, wherein the formulation is one of the following anhydrous formulations 1-60, where the indicated value is + / - 10% of the indicated value, + / - 1% of the indicated value, or the indicated value, respectively. 【Table 1】

19. 20. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 18, wherein the formulation is anhydrous.

20. 20. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 19, wherein the formulation is clear.

21. 21. The topical naproxen formulation of claim 20, wherein the formulation has a refractive index of 1-2 measured using an Abbe refractometer in transmission mode at 589 nm at 20°C.

22. 13. A method of locally treating a pain episode at a site on the human body comprising locally applying to said site the topical naproxen formulation of claim 1.

Images